Detroit Lions sign safety Tyrell Johnson, release Erik Coleman

Former Vikings safety Tyrell Johnson was signed by the Detroit Lions on TuesdayAP File Photo

The Detroit Lions made a surprising move on Tuesday, waiving Erik Coleman.

The veteran safety had appeared in all 12 games for the Lions this season, starting seven in place of injured starters Louis Delmas and Amari Spievey.

Coleman has tallied 47 total tackles this season, broken up three passes and intercepted another.

After starting and playing 75 of 79 defensive snaps against the Houston Texans on Thanksgiving, he was relegated to playing only on special teams this past Sunday against the Indianapolis Colts.

To replace Coleman on the roster, the Lions have signed Tyrell Johnson.

Johnson, a 2008 second-round draft pick, worked out for the Lions back in September. The 6-foot, 207-pound safety played the previous four years with the Minnesota Vikings, appearing in 49 games and starting 27.

Johnson has registered 123 career tackles and intercepted two passes. He signed with the Miami Dolphins in the offseason, but was released during the preseason.

Johnson has had a tough time staying healthy. He is a big, strong athletic safety who can be a physical presence defending the run. He can fill the alley effectively but is inconsistent in space. He is best in combination zone coverages and may be a liability in pure man schemes. He has been a solid special teams player and has the tools to develop into a productive starter but there are durability concerns.

In addition to adding Johnson, the Lions also re-signed wide receiver Troy Burrell to the practice squad to replace Kris Durham, who the team added to the active roster earlier in the day.